The ceremony was hosted by MSNBC Live’s Thomas Roberts and America’s Got Talent’s Melanie Brown. Jeannie Mai was also present as a backstage correspondent.

Judges included Chef Nobu, Tara Lipinski, Italo Fontana, Anne V, Philip Kirkorov, Carol Alt, Farouk Shami and Steven Tyler, who also performed towards the end of the show. Other performers were Panic! At The Disco and Russian singer Emin.

Miss Philippines Ariella Arida, who placed 3rd runner-up, did well. Her answer to the final question was very much applauded and Pinoy netizens on Twitter agreed that she answered it as it should be.

Ara picked judge Tara Lipinski who asked her about what can be done about lack of jobs for young people starting their careers around the world. She answered that we should invest in education which is also her primary advocacy. “Education is a primary source and ticket for better future,” she said.

Ara, who was the winner of the fan votes at the Miss Universe website, is also the lone contestant to answer in English.

Miss Venezuela Gabriela Isler was asked by judge Steven Tyler about her greatest fear and how she overcame it. She answered about the importance of overcoming one’s fears because it will make one a stronger person to face the challenges of life.